The best base layers for winter running

Whether you’re training for a spring marathon, or trying to make it to your Saturday morning parkrun, keeping the motivation up as the temperature drops can be difficult. To keep you warm as you clock up the winter miles, our gear editors have hand-picked the best cold weather base layers.

What is a base layer?

Unlike a long-sleeved T-shirt, a base layer will wick sweat away and keep you dry when you’re running. Base layers can be worn in winter and in the summer to help your body regulate your temperature when you’re running. They are designed to fit like a second skin, in the winter, they’ll preserve your body heat and in the summer they’ll wick sweat away helping you stay cool. Most will also have compression elements to their design.

What are the best base layers for runners this winter?

Our gear editor’s rounded up their favourites on the market for both men and women here -

Long Sleeve Running Base Layer, £45, runderwear.co.uk

We’re a big fan of this super-soft, moisture-wicking, cold weather base layer. The built-in running mitts mean you can leave your gloves at home without running with cold hands. Like the brand’s running underwear, the seamless design minimises chafing when you sweat, even when you’re running with a backpack.

You’ll probably have seen a lot of runners with striped arms over the years and there’s a good reason why - Helly Hansen know what they’re doing when it comes to base layers. Made with their own ‘Lifa’ technology to keep you warm as you move, this lightweight base layer is breathable, comfortable and insulating for chillier runs. Available in a number of different colourways in both men’s and women’s sizes.

Lululemon Swiftly Tech Long Sleeve, £68, lululemon.co.uk

A great technical running top to wear as a base layer, or on it’s own when the weather is milder. It’s insulating without making you feel like you’re overheating in the final few miles, and the fabric is lightweight, with plenty of ventilation. Plus, it comes in a number of colours to suit every running wardrobe.

Dhb Merino Long Sleeve Base Layer, £40, wiggle.co.uk

A mid-weight merino wool base layer for cold running, this is a great underlayer for your training. Compared to other synthetic running layers, the inner layer of this top is sweat wicking, whilst the outer layer is water repelling, allowing it to absorb a greater amount of moisture before it feels wet. The fit is close to the body, and the layer is available in a number of different colours for both men and women.

Inov-8 Base Elite Long Sleeve Merino Base Layer, £50, inov-8.com

A long sleeved, fast-drying base layer from inov-8 - a brand that knows a thing or two about keeping runners comfortable in the great outdoors. This layer wicks sweat away from the body, retaining warmth as you clock up the miles. It might be one of the more expensive base layers on this list, but if looked after correctly, you’ll be running in this for years. An added bonus, this new iteration of the top is made from recycled technical polyester yarns, so you can rest assured you're doing your bit for the environment too.

Kalenji Long-Sleeved Jersey, £7.99, decathlon.com

While it's not technically a base layer (you wouldn't want to wear this in the summer), if you're worried about staying warm this winter and want a cheap layer to chuck on before you head out, this is an affordable choice. Designed for runs between 4 and 7 degrees celsius, the long sleeved jersey has thumb holes, a high neck and reflective details.

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